The Chelsea team is preparing for significant changes in their forthcoming match against Sheffield United. Following injuries that forced several players off the pitch during their last match, Mauricio Pochettino has implemented five alterations to the team’s lineup, hinting at a potentially exhilarating debut from the bench.
A prominent change lies in the goalkeeper position, with Robert Sanchez set to make his home debut. Djordje Petrovic, who filled in for Sanchez in the previous match, will also be making his inaugural start for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The absence of full-backs Reece James and Marc Cucurella due to injuries has prompted the return of Thiago Silva and Levi Colwill in the backline, accompanied by Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile.
Conor Gallagher will take on the role of captain in the absence of Reece James, and will partner with Moises Caicedo in midfield, while Cole Palmer continues in the lineup. In the attack, Mauricio Pochettino has selected Nicolas Jackson and Raheem Sterling, with Armando Broja and Enzo Fernandez situated on the bench.
Notably, Christopher Nkunku is set to make a return to the substitutes’ bench after sustaining an injury in the pre-season, marking his inclusion in the squad for a competitive fixture for the first time.
On the opposing side, Sheffield United has made two adjustments to their team, with Oli McBurnie and Max Lowe returning to the lineup.
The confirmed lineup for Chelsea is as follows:
– Petrovic, Disasi, Thiago Silva, Badiashile, Colwill, Gallagher (c), Caicedo, Sterling, Palmer, Mudryk, Jackson
And the substitutes are:
– Bettinelli, Bergstrom, Gilchrist, Gusto, Maatsen, Enzo, Matos, Nkunku, Broja
For Sheffield United:
– Foderingham, Bogle, Ahmedhodzic (c), Trusty, Lowe, Souza, McAtee, Brooks, Hamer, Archer, McBurnie
And the substitutes are:
– Davies, Baldock, Larouci, Thomas, Ben Slimane, Norwood, Osborn, Traore, Osula
The match will be officiated by Andrew Madley.
This upcoming fixture promises to be an enthralling encounter with new faces and potential debuts, as both teams strive to clinch a victory. Stay tuned for the much-anticipated showdown!